Coach: Centerpoint presents threats inside, outside

Hopefully, we can get back to the state tournament, but we have our work cut out for us.” KEVIN OWENS CENTERPOINT KNIGHTS COACH

Centerpoint head coach Kevin Owens said it is going to be an exciting year with this group, and hopefully, “we can grow and continue to improve through the season to get ready for the postseason.” The Knights finished 20-14 last year and return two starters: seniors Owen Bright, who averaged 12 points per game last season, and his cousin Michael Bright, who has been a starter at the point-guard position for the past two years. Senior Colton Carver, 6-7, came off the bench last year, and Owens said Carver is one of the team’s best inside players, alongside sophomore Christian Miller, who averaged a double-double last year at the junior high level. Owen Bright led the team in 3-point shooting last year, and Michael Bright and Cullen Smith can also shoot it well, the coach said. “Hopefully, we can get back to the state tournament, but we have our work cut out for us,” Owens said. “Ashdown and Smackover are new to our conference, and Prescott has everyone returning, so it is going to be tough. “Our regional also has some new additions as well. Drew Central made it to the finals last season, and they have everyone back.” Centerpoint has four seniors who have a lot of playing experience and also has a good inside presence with Carver and Miller. “Our defense has to get better,” Owens said. “We have been working on it all fall in the offseason. If we can get better there, it will be a big help. “Team chemistry is also key. We have four seniors; then we get very young, so hopefully, we can get better with team chemistry.” The coach said the game against Prescott is always a dog fight and a rivalry game. “Ashdown and Smackover are new, but they should be pretty good,” he said. Centerpoint will open the season Nov. 13 against Mount Ida.